INTERNATIONAL MASONIC REVIEW PUBLISHED BY BONISTEEL MASONIC LIBRARY

Guide to Scottish Rite of Freemasonry

Masons Sponsor Youth Talent Contest

The Scottish Rite is one of the appendant bodies of Freemasonry that a Master Mason may join for further exposure to the principles of Freemasonry.

Special Issue!

# 1 Good idea for Our Community!!!

Fall 2008

09US $4.50 CA $5.00

Volume 16. Issue 4 • • FALL 2008

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� CONTENTSOf The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

345

MAPOf The SR Masonic Jurisdiction

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HISTORYOf The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

9111618

HISTORYOf The Southern Masonic Jurisdiction

MASONS SPONSORYouth Talent Contest

WHEN TO WEAR THE SCOTTISH RITE CAP

By C. Fred Kleinknecht

THE DISTINCTIVE REGALIA OF THE SCOTTISH RITE

By Pete Normand

LESSONS OF THE SCOTTISH DEGREES

32° MASONIC LEARNINGCenter for Children

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

For those of you who are new to this publication, we hope you enjoy what you see and come back. Suggestions and opinions are welcome.

Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

Southwest Sector

South Central SectorSoutheast Sector

Northeast Sector

North Central Sector

Northwest Sector

The House of the Temple, headquarters of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Southern Jurisdiction, is located in Washington, D.C., on Sixteenth Street, NW, between R and S Streets.

Southern Masonic Jurisdiction

headquarters located in Lexington, Massachusetts, is the governing body of Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Southern Masonic Jurisdiction Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

SOUTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION AND

NORTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION

The Scottish Rite’s role in Masonry, then, is to show men where to look and what to look for in their journey to self-awareness, personal insight, and individual enlightenment. As such, the

Rite is critically important to continuing each Brother’s Masonic education. The Scottish Rite is indeed the university course in Masonry. It explores philosophy, history, comparative religion, situational ethics, and the ultimate truths that guide our lives. It was created to complete what

the Craft system began. It is the University of Freemasonry.

William B. Brunk, 33°

3

Also Alaska and Hawaii belong to Southern Jurisdiction

1813- On August 5th Daniel D. Tompkins is chosen as the first Sovereign Grand Commander of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Tompkins had enjoyed a successful political career. In 1804 he was simultaneously elected to Congress and appointed to the New York Supreme Court. He chose the latter, serving until his election as Governor in 1807. He was offered the post of Secretary of State in the Madison administration, and was elected U.S. Vice President in 1816, with fellow Mason, James Monroe.

18�7- Anti-Masonic movement spreads across the nation, and nearly extinguishes the fraternity. John James Joseph Gourgas was elected as Sovereign Grand Commander and kept the rite alive during this dark period. Through his dedication and loyalty he earned the title “Conservator of the Rite.”

1840’s- Sovereign Grand Commander Giles F. Yates sets about rebuilding the organization. One of his followers, Killian H. Van Rensselaer, established new valleys in New Haven, Pittsburgh, and Chicago.

1851- Edward A. Raymond is elected as Sovereign Grand Commander.

1860- Raymond’s contentious leadership causes a split in the Supreme Council. He was deposed and replaced by Van Rensselaer. Raymond established a rival Supreme Council, which operated for six years.

1867- Following the death of Raymond, the two rival councils unified.

1879- Henry L. Palmer is elected Sovereign Grand Commander, beginning the longest tenure (30 years) in the history of the rite.

19�1- Leon Abbott is elected and moves the Supreme Council headquarters from New York to Boston. Upon his death, his will provided for the Abbott Scholarships.

1933- Melvin Maynard Johnson is elected and serves as the first full-time Sovereign Grand Commander. Johnson led the rite through the Great Depression, World War II, a membership drop to 208,000, and its rebound to 422,000. He established a foundation to fund schizophrenia research and wrote many papers on early freemasonry.

1968- SGC George A. Newbury moved the Supreme Council headquarters from Boston to Lexington, MA, just a mile from where the American Revolution began.

1970- The Northern Light begins publishing.

1975- On April 20, the day after the American Revolution Bicentennial began on Lexington Green with President Ford presiding, the National Heritage Museum opens on the grounds of Supreme Council headquarters. It is called the gift of the Scottish Rite Masons to the nation.

1995- Sovereign Grand Commander Robert O. Ralston begins a new charity as the first 32° Masonic Learning Center for Dyslexia opens. There are now 46 such centers, with more on the way.

�000- The Supreme Council opens its new headquarters building on the grounds in Lexington, MA.

�003- Walter E. Webber succeeds Robert Ralston as Sovereign Grand Commander.

�005- The number of children’s learning centers exceeds 50.

�006- John Wm. McNaughton succeeds Walter E. Webber as Sovereign Grand Commander.

HISTORYof the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

4

History

Sources:Web site of Northern Masonic Jurisdiction - http://www.supremecouncil.org

The Grand Constitutions of 1786, in the earliest known text in the possession of John Mitchell and Frederick Dalcho, provided for two Su-preme Councils in the United States. The Su-preme Council at Charleston sent one of its Ac-tive members to New York and authorized him to establish in 1813 a Supreme Council for the Northern Jurisdiction of the United States of America. With this accomplished, the Supreme Council at Charleston in 1827 ceded to the Northern Supreme Council the 15 states north of the Ohio and east of the Mississippi rivers. The Southern Supreme Council retained juris-diction over all other states and territories (at home and abroad) of the United States.

The Supreme Council, 33°, Southern Jurisdiction, is the governing body for Scottish Rite Freema-sonry. With its headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Supreme Council elects its own Active Members and is self-perpetuating. It charters Subordinate Bodies in cities (called Valleys) of states, territories, or countries (called Orients). In the Southern Jurisdiction, the Subordinate Bod-ies must observe the Statutes of our Supreme Council, its orders and regulations and, when the Supreme Council is not in session, those of the Sovereign Grand Commander.

The Supreme Council meets every other year, at which time the business of the Rite is transact-ed and KCCH, 33˚ and Grand Cross honors are conferred on those who have been elected to receive these honors.

5

HISTORY

The House of the Temple, headquarters of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Southern Jurisdiction, is located in Washington, D.C

The House of The Temple

The Grand Constitutions of 1786, in the earliest known text in the possession of John Mitchell and

Frederick Dalcho, provided for two Su-preme Councils in the United States. The Supreme Council at Charleston sent one of its Active Members to New York and authorized him to establish in 1813 a Supreme Council for the Northern Juris-diction of the United States of America. With this accomplished, The Supreme Council at Charleston in 1827 ceded to the Northern Supreme Council the 15 states north of the Ohio and east of the Mississippi Rivers. The Southern Su-preme Council retained jurisdiction over

all other states and territories (at home and abroad) of the

United States.

HISTORYof the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction

6

The mission of the contest is to provide an opportunity for the youth of the world to display their talent and have a lot of fun!

“Quest for the Best”Masons Sponsor Youth Talent Contest

The San Francisco

Scottish Rite

VENUEThe San Francisco Scottish Rite Center is the perfect Venue for our Youth Talent Show. This professional venue has hosted all types of events from the Jerry Lewis Telethon to all sorts of youth Broadway-style shows to the very important and intricate Scottish Rite Degrees.

# 1 Good idea for Our Community!

7

Masons Sponsor Youth Talent Contest “Quest for the Best” 2008

Fifth Annual Competition Awards Prize Money to Youth Organizations

Fresh, fun, and youthful may not be the words most often associated with Freemasonry, but the San Francisco Scottish Rite Masons have a style and an event all their own: “Quest for the Best” is a yearly youth talent competition that awards cash prizes to local youth organizations. Now in its fifth consecutive year, “Quest” was developed by a committed group of volunteers from the lodge’s ranks along with its ladies’ and youth auxiliaries, directed and co-produced by Carson Duper, Director of Theater Operations at the San Francisco Scottish Rite headquarters at 19th and Sloat.

“Quest” has grown for five years running, from a handful of local Masonic youth to young contestants from all over California. The contest is judged by local and regional entertainment and arts professionals, and is emceed by up-and-coming young local talents

who lead full stage production numbers and introduce the acts, each of which opens with a video interview.

This year’s Quest for the Best took place on Saturday July 19. The seven finalists who successfully completed the audition process came from as far as San Diego, and comprised singers, dancers (clogging, modern, traditional, and jazz tap), and cheerleaders. First place was taken by a modern dancer performing an original piece, second prize by a singer, and third an Irish dancer. All kinds of performers are welcome to try out, as long as they are affiliated with an established youth organization to which the prize money is awarded. Past contestants have included a broad range of performers, from rock bands to Polynesian dancers to classical instrumental soloists.

The San Francisco Scottish Rite has devoted many years of effort to the quality of its theatrical productions, which are central to Masonic activities, and it is able to bring this experience and expertise to “Quest,” taking the youth through a full-blown, professional-level theatrical production, with all the excitement

of auditions, call backs, and dress and tech rehearsals. All contestants also take part in group production numbers that promote cooperation as well as competition. “Each year we give these young people a professional level theater experience that builds confidence and character,” says Duper, who has degrees in theater and drama. “We set high expectations and provide the means for achieving them, and we try to make the kids and Masonry proud.”

The contest awards cash prizes of $1000, $500, and $250, respectively, for first, second, and third places, to youth organizations, to encourage not only performing talent but also involvement in wholesome and productive youth activities.

For more information, go to www.questforthebest-sf.com

This project was started by the following people as they believe that there is hidden talent everywhere in this great nation of ours:

Carson Duper • Gregory Botto • Richard Modolo • Martin Kloess • Lance Hough • Michelle Carlson • Francis Lansang • Erica Nurse • Sary You

Ill. Greg Botto, 33rd Degree, twice Past Master San Mateo Lodge #226, Technical Director for Quest and all SF Bodies degrees. Ill. Richard Modolo, 33rd Degree, Past Potentate and current Recorder Asiya Shrine, Stage Manager for Quest and all SF Bodies degrees. Michelle Carlson, Senior Advisor Job’s Daughters Bethel 37, host talent and youth liaison.

5th“Quest for the Best”

If wearing the cap is in good taste and appropriate for a p o s i t i v e

Scottish Rite image, it is time to educate the general public regarding the cap, who is wearing it, and the organization it represents.

If the apron is the “badge of a Mason” in the Blue Lodge, the cap can be said to be the public badge of a Scottish Rite Mason. In our Order, the cap is both a prayer cap in the Jewish tradition and a symbol of the Scottish Rite Mason as a soldier in the “Empire of Intellect, Reason, Philosophy, and Wise Morality” (32°). Similarly, a cap was worn by English knights, including the Templars, and was later given a military significance by British regimental soldiers in the 19th century. The Supreme Council adopted the present caps in 1927.

The cap is considered a part of the uniform and is treated as such. Consequently, it must not be removed when the flag is passing, while saying the Pledge of Allegiance, or participating in prayer. On such occasions as the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance or the performance of the national anthem in song or music, the cap remains on the head, and the

Scottish Rite Mason places his right hand on his heart. During prayer, the cap remains in place, but the head is slightly bowed and the hands are placed in the “Sign of the Good Shepherd”: the left arm folded over the right with fingers outstretched and touching the shoulders comfortably. This dignified position reflects the compassionate spirit of the Scottish Rite in recalling the Good Shepherd as He carried a lamb over His neck, holding its feet with His crossed arms. (See image at left.)

At the Supreme Council’s 1999 Executive Session, it was agreed the wearing of the Scottish Rite caps in public should, as stated in the Statutes, Article XV, Sec. 21, be left to the discretion of the Sovereign Grand Inspector General or Deputy in his Orient. The Supreme Council agreed that, if wearing the cap is in good taste and appropriate for a positive Scottish Rite image, it is time to educate the general public regarding the cap, who is wearing it, and the organization it represents.

Sovereign Grand Commander C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33°

Sources: From Forms and Traditions of the Scottish Rite.http://www.srmason-sj.org/web/journal-files/Issues/jul02/caps.htm

BADGE OF A SCOTTISH RITE MASON

CApS AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCEAs the White Lambskin is the Badge of a Mason, so is the regulation cap the badge of a Scottish Rite Mason.

MORE ABOUT SCOTTISH RITE ON PAGE 9

WHEN TO WEAR THE SCOTTISH RITE CAPBy C. Fred Kleinknecht, 33°

A purple cap indicates that the wearer is a 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector General and Active Member of the Supreme Council.

A white cap indicates a 33° Inspector General Honorary.

A red cap means 32° Knight Com-mander of the Court of Honour (KCCH).

A light blue cap means that the wear-er has been a Scottish Rite Mason for fifty years or more.

A black cap indicates that the wearer has attained the 32°.

The Supreme Council has set forth a rule for the correct wearing of the cap. When wearing a cap it shall be considered to be a part of the apparel of the wearer and shall not be removed. At the presentation of the flag, the cap shall remain in place, and the members shall stand at attention with the right hand over the heart. During prayer, the cap shall remain in place and the hands and arms shall be crossed as in the 18°. The wearing of caps is considered proper at Reunions, Scottish Rite meetings. Maundy Thursday services, etc. It is improper for the cap to be worn in cafes, bus stations, on the street, or in any other public place.

9

THE DISTINCTIVE REGALIA OF THE SCOTTISH RITE

By Pete Normand,, 33°

Scottish Rite caps

Second only to the Masonic apron, the Scottish Rite cap is undoubtedly one of Freemasonry’s most distinctive items of regalia. But, while we as speculative Masons inherit the Ma-sonic apron from the operative craft of the medieval stone-masons, the Scottish Rite cap comes down to us from the me-dieval chivalric tradition. When the Master Mason receives the Thirty-Second Degree and dons the black satin headgear of the Scottish Rite, the Masonic craftsman is elevated to an order of Masonic knighthood.

The Scottish Rite cap is a vestige of the dress regalia more commonly associated with orders of European knighthood. Aside from their distinctive caps, the full-dress regalia of the various orders includes other accouterments such as sashes or cordons, swords and sword belts, cloaks or capes, and jewels, badges, and other decorations denoting their rank or office within their respective orders.

The two separate traditions of the stonemason’s craft and medieval knighthood have become so intimately intertwined in the rich pageantry of our Masonic ritual and regalia that most Masons never stop to consider how or when the two became woven together.

Today, most Masonic historians look to the mid-1700s for the introduction of the chivalric tradition in Freemasonry. Masonic rituals published prior to that are concerned purely with the legends and implements of the operative Mason. But, beginning in the mid-1740s, additional Degrees appeared that conferred orders of knighthood upon enthusiastic Brethren eager to add to and to embroider, if you will, their Masonic experience.

The seminal moment seems to be an oration delivered to a French Lodge on December 26, 1736, by the Chevalier Michael Andrew Ramsay, a Scotsman serving as the Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of France. This Masonic lecture, known to history as “Ramsay’s Oration,” embellished upon existing traditions by stating that the founders of Freemason-ry were Crusader knights who, in emulation of the ancient Israelites, handled “the trowel and mortar with one hand,” while in the other, “they held the sword and buckler.”

The subsequent wide publication of this stirring lecture met with such great approval on the part of the French Breth-ren that, over the next few decades, a number of chivalric Degrees appeared. Whether these Degrees were created out of whole cloth, or were developed out of older, existing or-ders, legends, and oral traditions has been grist for Masonic historians since the first appearance of these so-called Hauts Grades, or High Degrees. Nevertheless, the introduction of the chivalric Degrees into the structure of Freemasonry led to the formation of Scottish Rite Freemasonry where the two traditions, of working craftsmen and religious knights, would be forever mingled.

In what many consider the most moving and impressive Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, indeed, perhaps the culmination of the Rite, the Degree of Knight Kadosh (30th Degree), the Candidate presents himself as an aspirant to be admitted into “the Knights of the Poor Fellow Soldiery of the Temple of Solomon,” the ancient name of the Knights Templar.

The new Scottish Rite Mason may at first be confused by the several different colored caps he will encounter at the first few meetings he attends. The following is a listing of the vari-

ous versions of the Scottish Rite cap.

The black silk cap, adorned with the recognizable Scottish Rite double-headed eagle, is the cap of a Master of the Royal Secret of the 32nd Degree.

The blue cap, deco-rated in front with a gold number 50 surrounded by a wreath is the cap of a Fifty-Year Scottish Rite Mason. The red cap, emblazoned with the red and gold cross of a Knight Com-mander, designates that the wearer is a 32nd Degree Mason who has been invested with the “rank and decoration” of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour, usually abbrevi-ated K.C.C.H.

The white cap indicates that the wearer has received the 33rd Degree, Inspector General. It bears the red and gold Pa-triarchal Cross of the Degree. The white cap also indicates that, although he is a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, he is not a member of the Supreme Council and is, therefore, designated an “Inspector General Honorary.” Some make the mistake of referring to this as an “Honorary 33rd.” The De-gree is that of the 33rd Degree. The name of the Degree is “Inspector General,” and the title is that of “Inspector Gen-eral Honorary.”

A white silk cap surrounded by a band of dark blue velvet bordered in gold is the cap of the Grand Cross of the Court of Honour. The front of the cap is adorned with the gold Teutonic cross of the Grand Cross. This honor, like that of Knight Commander, is awarded at the Biennial Sessions of the Supreme Council.

A white 33rd Degree cap that is surrounded by a band of red velvet bordered in gold is the cap of a Deputy of the Supreme Council. It indicates that the wearer has been depu-tized by the Supreme Council to govern the operation of the Rite in his Orient (state or territory).

The purple cap is that of a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, or S.G.I.G. It is surrounded by a band of purple vel-vet, bordered in gold and decorated with a gold vine of laurel leaves and berries. The front of the cap is emblazoned with a purple and gold Patriarchal Cross with crosslets. The wearer of this cap is the head of the Rite in his Orient and is an Ac-tive Member of the Supreme Council.

The violet cap is reserved for the Sovereign Grand Com-mander. It is surrounded by a band of violet velvet and, like the purple cap, is also decorated with a gold vine of laurel leaves and berries. The front of this cap is emblazoned with the Salem Cross with crosslets.

In addition to their caps, Scottish Rite Masons are distin-guished by their colorful regalia and jewels, which can be seen at almost any meeting. Some of the symbolic meanings of the regalia are well-known, and others are shrouded in the mists of speculation (which makes Masonic research so much fun).

The distinctive

Scottish Rite caps derive from

the dress regalia of European orders of knighthood.

Pierre G. “Pete” Normand, Jr.

Central to the ritual of the 14°, Perfect Elu, is the presen-tation of a ring, worn by Scottish Rite Masons from the 14° through the 32°. It is a plain gold band with an equilateral tri-angular plate enclosing the Hebrew letter yud, the initial letter of Yahweh—the tetragrammaton—the ineffable name of God. Engraved on the inside is the Latin motto, “Virtus Junxit Mors Non Separabit” (Whom virtue unites, death will not separate). Ill. Bro. Jim Tresner, 33°, G.C., tells us in Vested in Glory, “The circular shape of the ring symbolizes unending commitment and loyalty, just as it does in a marriage. The triangular plate and the letter signify that the commitment is to the Deity.”

A Thirty-Second Degree Mason, Master of the Royal Secret, is identified with the jewel of the Degree: a gold Teutonic Cross with the numerals XXXII surrounded by a laurel wreath in the center and suspended from a white ribbon. The Teutonic Cross was probably adopted because the Grand Constitutions of 1786 were believed to be authored by the Prussian King, Frederick the Great, and the Teutonic Knights were the preeminent Ger-man order of knighthood. The laurel wreath is the ancient sym-bol of victory and triumph, and it is used throughout Scottish Rite Regalia. Here it can signify the triumph of attaining the Royal Secret.

After being a Thirty-Second Degree Mason in the Southern Jurisdiction for at least 46 months and distinguishing himself in service to Masonry, to the Scottish Rite, or to the service of humanity, a Brother may be selected to be invested with the Rank and Decoration of a Knight Commander of the Court of Honour. The selection is made by the Supreme Council at its Biennial Session meeting every odd year, and about 2.5% of our members have been so recognized. Recipients of this honor re-ceive a special jewel to wear on their coats, over the heart. The K.C.C.H. jewel is a red passion cross (arms of unequal length), fitched (the ends terminate in three points) on a circle of laurel leaves, on which is a raised gold circular plate, with gold beads around the circumference. The plate is enameled in white, and on it is a green trefoil, an ancient symbol of spirituality. Around the trefoil is “KT. COMM. COURT OF HONOUR.” The jewel is suspended from a white ribbon.

Possibly the most recognized (and certainly misunderstood) Masonic honor is the Thirty-Third Degree of the Scottish Rite. In the Southern Jurisdiction, one who has been a Knight Com-mander of the Court of Honour for at least 46 months is eligible to be elected by the Supreme Council to this Degree. About 1.5% of our members hold this Degree. The ring is a triple band of gold, either plain or with a triangular plate of gold enclosing the numerals 33. The jewel, suspended from a white ribbon, has very distinctive details.

Jim Tresner describes it as follows: “The basis of the jewel is a Teutonic Cross. On that is a nine-pointed star, composed of three gold triangles, interlaced. The design also forms nine small triangles, and in each of these is one of the letters … ‘S.A.P.I.E.N.T.I.A.,’ the Latin word for wisdom. A sword ex-tends from the lower part of the left side of the jewel to the up-per part of the right side. Crossing that is … a ‘Hand of Justice.’ This forms a scepter, terminating in a carving of a hand…. On top of the cross, triangles, crossed sword, and Hand of Justice

is a circular plate, and on the plate is a shield with a crowned double-headed eagle. To the right of the eagle is a balance and to the left is a Square and Compasses. Around the design are the Latin words Ordo ab Chao, Order out of Chaos, enclosed by two serpents, each biting its tail.”

The Teutonic Cross continues to remind us of the German origins of the Grand Constitutions of 1786. The double-headed eagle looking to the East and West may be from the coat of arms of Germany or from a French ancestor organization of the Scot-tish Rite, the Emperors of the East and West. Its crown signifies that the Thirty-third Degree is the administrative Degree of the Rite, and this symbolism of proper administration is continued with the sword of strength, the hand of justice, and the scales in balance. The three three-sided figures remind us of 33, the number of this Degree, while Sapientia indicates the symbolic achievement required for this recognition. The snakes biting their tails are ancient symbols of eternity and completion, and can allude to the scriptural admonition, “Be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

The highest honor awarded by the Supreme Council, 33°, S.J., is the Grand Cross of the Court of Honour. There are fewer than 60 living recipients of this decoration out of nearly 400,000 members in the Southern Jurisdiction. The Grand Cross jewel has as its foundation the Teutonic Cross of the 32° and 33° rest-ing on a wreath of gold oak leaves, emblematic of strength of purpose in the service of humanity and the Rite. In the center is a gold circular plate with a blue enameled border containing the gold letters, “GR. CROSS COURT OF HONOUR.” In the cen-ter of the plate is an enameled crimson rose with green leaves on a white background. The red rose recalls the imagery of the 18°, Knight Rose Croix, where the flower represents renewal, as a recipient of the Grand Cross is forever renewing his efforts to serve.

All of the unique regalia of the Scottish Rite is explained in detail with color pictures in Bro. Jim Tresner’s book, Vested in Glory (see “Book Reviews”).

Along with other vendors who supply Scottish Rite rings and jewels, Ill. Thad D. Wilkins, 33°, of Wilkins Bros., Inc. (W.B.I.), will be in attendance at the Bicentennial Celebration in Charleston, along with two assistants, Misty Rose and Mary Schenkel. W.B.I. has two Bicentennial Session incentives to of-fer. First, a handsome gift 32° pendant (3/4” square, pictured here enlarged, a $24.95 value) will be given free with each purchase at the Session of a 32° Jewel. Second, there will be a special Session one-time-only offer on all Jewels purchased in Charleston. Also, to build Scottish Rite pride and enhance membership, W.B.I. will send a free 32° pendant to any first-line signer on the petition of a successful Candidate for the Scottish Rite Degrees. W.B.I. will depend on Valley Secretaries for this information. Thank you, Bro. Thad for this generous gesture to promote Scottish Rite membership!

Reprint from - http://www.scottishrite.org/council/journal/oct01/normand.html

is a Past Master of both Sul Ross Lodge No. 1300 and St. Alban’s Lodge No. 1455 in College Station, Texas, and is a Past Master of Texas Lodge of Research. He is Director of Work of the Scottish Rite Bodies in Houston, Texas. He is a founding member of both the St. Alban’s Research Society and the Preservation Masonic Research Society. He is the former editor of American Masonic Review and is currently an editor of the Plumbline, the bulletin of the Scottish Rite Research Society.

THE SCOTTISH RITE NORTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION

DESIGNATES ITS DEGREES IN THE FOllOwING MANNER:

4° through 14°: Lodge of Perfection

15° through 16°: Council, Princes of Jerusalem

17° through 18°: Chapter of Rose Croix

19° through 32°: Consistory

Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

4° Master Traveler5° Perfect Master6° Master of the Brazen Serpent7° Provost and Judge8° Intendant of the Building9° Master of the Temple10° Master Elect11° Sublime Master Elected12° Master of Mercy13° Master of the Ninth Arch14° Grand Elect Mason15° Knight of the East16° Prince of Jerusalem17° Knight of the East and West18° Knight of the Rose Croix19° Grand Pontiff20° Master ad Vitam21° Patriarch Noachite22° Prince of Libanus23° Chief of the Tabernacle24° Brother of the Forest25° Master of Achievement26° Friend and Brother Eternal27° Knight of Jerusalem28° Knight of the Sun29° Knight of St. Andrew30° Grand Inspector31° Knight Aspirant32° Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret33° Inspector General

Southern Masonic Jurisdiction

4° - Secret Master5° - Perfect Master 6° - Intimate Secretary 7° - Provost & Judge 8° - Intendant of the Building 9° - Elu of the Nine (Elected Knight of the Nine) 10° - Elu of the Fifteen (Illustrious Elect of the Fifteen) 11° - Elu of the Twelve (Sublime Knight Elect of the Twelve) 12° - Master Architect 13° - Royal Arch of Solomon (Knight of the Ninth Arch)14° - Perfect Elu (Grand Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason) 15° - Knight of the East, of the Sword or of the Eagle16° - Prince of Jerusalem 17° - Knight of the East & West18° - Knight Rose Croix 19° - Grand Pontiff 20° - Master of the Symbolic Lodge21° - Noachite or Prussian Knight 22° - Knight Royal Axe, Prince of Libanus 23° - Chief of the Tabernacle 24° - Prince of the Tabernacle 25° - Knight of the Brazen Serpent 26° - Prince of Mercy or Scottish Trinitarian 27° - Knight Commander of the Temple 28° - Knight of the Sun or Prince Adept 29° - Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew 30° - Knight of Kadosh or Knight of the White & Black Eagle 31° - Inspector Inquisitor32° - Master of the Royal Secret 33° - Inspector General Honorary

THERE ARE FOUR COORDINATE DIvISIONS IN THE SCOTTISH RITE

SOUTHERN JURISDICTION

Lodge of Perfection, 4th degree to 14th degree

Chapter of Rose Croix, 15th degree to 18th

Council of Kadosh, 19th degree to 30th degree

Consistory 31st to 32nd and the 33rd degree

11

Mottos of the Craft

ordo ab Chaoorder out of Chaos

spes Mea in deo est My faith is in God

in deo fiduCia nostraour trust is in God

Lessons of the Scottish Degrees:

Lessons of the Scottish Degrees:

4° 5°

6° 7°

8° 9°

10° 11°

12° 13°

14° 15°

16° 17°

1�

Scottish Rite Apron

Degrees of the Scottish Rite4° - Secret Master Duty, reflection and study are the gateway to opportunity. As such, one honors those relationships to God, family, country and Masonry. The apron of the 4th Degree is white and black, with a letter “Z” and all-seeing eye. The jewel of this degree is an ivory key with the letter “Z” on the wards. The duties are secrecy, obedience and fidelity.

5° - Perfect Master The degree teaches Masonic honor; that honesty and trustworthiness is the cornerstone of the foundation of such. This virtue should be in all of our undertakings with mankind. The apron of the 5th Degree is white and green, with a cubic stone and a Hebrew YOD. The jewel is represented by a compass open on a segment of a circle, to an angle of sixty degrees. The duties are honesty, sincerity, good faith and industry.

6° - Intimate Secretary In this degree one should expand their knowledge of duty, charity and toleration. We are instructed to reshape ourselves and our thinking into charity, self-control and success, i.e. to be a peacemaker. The apron of the 6th Degree is white and red, with Hebrew letters YOD HEH in the center and a small triangle containing the Hebrew letters (clockwise from top) BETH, NUN and SHIN. The gold triangle with the same three letters inscribed is the jewel that represents this degree. The duties are zeal, faithfulness, benevolence and to act the peacemaker.

7° - Provost & Judge We learn that impartial justice protects person, property, happiness and reputation. We are instructed to judge with patience and impartially. The apron of the 7th Degree is white edged with red, with a key and five rosettes. The jewel is a golden key. The duty is justice.

8° - Intendant of the Building We should strive for perfection by using the great principles of God’s inherent love, charity, morality and kindness. The apron of the 8th Degree is white with red and green, with a balance, a nine-pointed star, and a triangle with the Hebrew letters BETH for Ben-Khurim; YOU for Jakinah; and ALEPH for Achar. The jewel of this Degree is a gold triangle with the same three letters. The duties are benevolence and charity.

9° - Elu of the Nine (Elected Knight of the Nine) Truth, candor and generosity. The foundation of Scottish Rite Masonry is most reflected in this degree. We should use these truths to shape our lives and conduct. The apron of the 9th Degree is white, lined with black and sprinkled with blood, with an arm holding a dagger and a severed head held by the hair. The jewel of this degree is a dagger, hilt of gold and blade of silver. The duties are enlightenment of soul and mind, vigilance, tolerance and being on guard for fanaticism and

persecution.

10° - Elu of the Fifteen (Illustrious Elect of the Fifteen) This degree teaches us to be tolerant and respect the opinions of others. Freedoms of political and spiritual ideologies should be shared by all. The apron of the 10th Degree is white, with a black flap with three arch-shaped gates, over each a head on a spike. The jewel of this degree is a dagger as in the 9th Degree. The duties are enlightenment of soul and mind, vigilance, tolerance and being on guard for fanaticism and persecution.

11° - Elu of the Twelve (Sublime Knight Elect of the Twelve) This degree teaches sympathy. We should be compassionate to our brother Masons and to all mankind as well. The apron of the 11th Degree is white, lined with black, with a flaming heart in the center. The jewel is a dagger suspended from a black cordon inscribed with the words “Vincere aut Mori” the pledge “that you will rather die than betray the cause of the people, or be overcome through your own fear or fault”. The duties are to be earnest, true, reliable and a champion of the people.

12° - Master Architect This degree teaches faith in morality, virtue and God. “Life is what each man makes of it; the optimist turns a trial into a blessing”. The apron of the 12th Degree consists of a white outer shell lined with blue and gold, symbolizing the Craft Degrees, with a protractor, plain scale, sector and compasses. The jewel is a heptagonal medal of gold. The duty is to seek wisdom through knowledge.

13° - Royal Arch of Solomon (Knight of the Ninth Arch) Liberty in our mind and hearts and motivated by duty and honor are the lessons of this degree. The apron of the 13th Degree is purple, bordered with white and with the “Enochian delta” (hexagram with inscribed Tetragrammation) in the center. The jewel comprises a circular medal of gold. The duties are to seek knowledge and to be motivated by duty and honour.

14° - Perfect Elu (Grand Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason) This degree teaches us to reflect and scrutinize ourselves. We should strive to be true to ourselves and our God. The apron being of white silk, bordered in gold with the Ineffable Delta in the Center, is truly emblematical of the degree. The jewel of the 14th Degree is split; one being a quadrant (compass open to ninety degrees) topped by a crown and with a nine-pointed star on the obverse; the other being a five-pointed blazing star with the Tetragrammaton on the reverse. The compass is opened on a segment of a circle inscribed with the numbers 3, 5, 7, 9. The duties are to assist, encourage and defend the brethren; to protect the oppressed and relieve want and distress; to enlighten the people and serve the common good.

Lessons of the Scottish Degrees

CHAPTER OF ROSE CROIxThe Chapter of Rose Croix attempts to provide the candidate with a deeper understanding of religion, philosophy, ethics and history though a variety of complex “historical degrees”. The intellectual challenges presented in these degrees are numerous, and at times overwhelming and can take years to master. A thorough reading of the chapters related to them in Morals and Dogma and in Legenda and Readings is essential to achieve even a basic comprehension of their true meaning. (click images to enlarge) 15° - Knight of the East, of the Sword or of the Eagle Fidelity to obligations and perseverance of purpose under difficulties and discouragement are the lessons of this degree. The striking crimson velvet apron of this degree is edged with green, having a bleeding head above two crossed swords and a triangle (top point to the left) with three interlaced triangles inside it. The jewel is three golden concentric triangles encompassing two crossed swords. The duty is to rebuild the Masonic Temple of liberty, equality and fraternity in the souls of men.

16° - Prince of Jerusalem We learn of heroism of patience, the nobility of self-sacrifice and compassionate judgment; along with charity, fidelity and brotherhood. The crimson apron is edged in gold and aurora-color, with a square, shield, Delta with three YODs, balance and a hand of justice. The jewel is a mother-of-pearl lozenge with a hand holding a balance in equipoise; under it a sword with five stars surrounding the point. On the left is a Hebrew D, on the right is a Hebrew Z. The duties are to aid those who labor to build the Symbolic Temple; to judge equitably and fairly; to keep faith in the justice and beneficence of God and to press forward with hope for the persecuted and oppressed.

17° - Knight of the East & West The wisdom of this degree is that loyalty to God is man’s primary allegiance and that temporal governments not founded upon God and His righteousness will inevitably fall. The apron is of yellow satin with crimson and gold, with a sword and Tetractys of the Tetragrammaton on it. The jewel is a heptagon of half silver and half gold, with crossed swords on a balance on the obverse and a lamb on the Book of Seven Seals on the reverse. The jewel is hung from a double order - one black (left-to-right) and one white (right-to-left), representing good versus evil. A gold coronet is also presented. The duties are to work, reflect and pray; to hope, trust and believe; to teach the truths that are hidden in allegory and concealed by the symbols of Freemasonry.

18° - Knight Rose Croix This degree emphasizes that life and its strength come from God. The rose signifies the dawn and the cross is a sacred symbol of antiquity in many cultures. One is also taught to be tolerant of other’s errors and faults. The apron is of white leather or satin, bordered in red, with a

skull and cross-bones, a red passion cross and three red rosettes. The grand jewel is a gold compass open a quarter circle. A rose-cross is between the legs of the compass and under it is a pelican, tearing its breast to feed its seven young on the obverse and an eagle with wings extended on the reverse. On the circle are the letters I.N.R.I. The duties are to practice virtue; to labor to eliminate vice; to purify humanity; to be tolerant of the faith and creed of others. COUNCIL OF KADOSHThe word “Kadosh” is a Hebrew word meaning Holy. Although Pike identifies the degrees of the Council of Kadosh as chivalric and philosophical, they are all intensely mystical with respect to the lessons conveyed and symbols employed. (click images to enlarge)“Faith in moral principles, in virtue and in God is as necessary for the guidance of a man as instinct is for the guidance of an animal.” - Albert Pike

19° - Grand Pontiff We learn from the past and how it affects the present and the influence we live in the future in this degree. We as mortals strive to endure, produce and improve the world as it surrounds us. There is no apron, but the jewel is a gold “parallelogram” (rectangle) with a Greek Alpha on one side and an Omega on the other. The duties are to be content to labor for the future; to serve the cause of truth with patience and industry; and to destroy error, falsehood and intolerance with truth, honesty, honour and charity.

20° - Master of the Symbolic Lodge This degree demonstrates liberty, fraternity and equality. These truths teach morals, religious and philosophical understandings. This degree helps one to comprehend Deity, the forces of nature and good and evil. The apron is yellow, bordered in blue, with three concentric point-down triangles with the Tetragrammaton (horizontal) and “Fiat Lux” (vertical) at the center forming a cross. Its triangular shape relates to the “fourth great light, which reminds us of the Deity and his attributes”. The jewel is made of gold with the same three concentric triangles. The duties are to dispense light and knowledge and to practice Masonic virtues.

21° - Noachite or Prussian Knight The lessons to be learned from this degree are that arrogance, defamation and cowardice are unworthy attributes of a Mason; and that humility, modesty and courtesy are the true virtues of men and Masons. The apron is yellow and contains an arm holding a sword, a winged figure holding a key in the left hand and the right forefinger on the lips (the Egyptian figure of silence). The jewel can be described as a point-up triangle, with an arrow, point downward, an arm holding a sword and the motto “Fiat Justitia, Ruat Coelum”. The duties are humility, modesty, trust in God and to be steadfast and courageous in the face of adversity.

18° 19°

20° 21°

22° 23°

24° 25°

26° 27°

28° 29°

30° 31°

Scottish Rite Apron

14

22° - Knight Royal Axe, Prince of Libanus This degree emphasizes work ethics. By doing good work we improve character and become better citizens. The apron of this degree is white, bordered in purple, and contains a three-headed serpent and a table with instruments and plans on it. The jewel is an axe and handle of gold. On the top of the handle are the initials of Noah and Solomon. In the middle of the handle are the initials of Libanus and Tsidun. On the blade are the initials of Adoniram, Cyrus, Darius, Zerubbabel, Nehemiah and Ezra on one side and Shem, Kham, Yapheth, Moses, Ahaliab and Betselal on the other. The duties are to respect labor for its own sake and to do work.

23° - Chief of the Tabernacle We learn in this degree that the man who forgets his duty to God, family, country and himself will be in danger of moral and spiritual destruction by thoughts and unworthy ambition. The apron worn is white bordered with red, blue and purple ribbons. These colors, from the curtains of the Tabernacle, represent earth, fire, air and sea respectively, as well as the Lord’s beneficence, glory, wisdom and power. On the apron is the golden seven-branched candlestick, representing the seven planets and virtues; the sun, faith, and aspiration toward the infinite; the moon, hope; Venus, charity; Mars, fortitude, “victory over rage and anger”; Mercury, prudence; Saturn, temperance; Jupiter, conqueror of the Titans and justice. The jewel worn is a small silver censer, or ornamented cup, held by a handle in the shape of an open hand. The duties are to be devoted to the service of God; to constantly endeavor to promote the welfare of man; to act with proper subordination to your superiors.

24° - Prince of the Tabernacle A Mason must show evidence of compassion, piety and justice in this degree. After initiation he may “manifest faithfully the social virtues in order to receive the rewards”, to serve humanity through our brotherhood. The apron is of white lambskin with scarlet green and blue. On it is a violet myrtle tree and a gold representation of an Arabian tent. The jewel worn is the Hebrew letter ALEPH, suspended from a violet ribbon. The duties are to labor incessantly for the glory of God, the honor of your country and the happiness of your brethren.

25° - Knight of the Brazen Serpent This degree attempts to explain the conceptualities of celestial purity and the eternal soul of man. The apprentice is driven to look within his faith, life and God to get a clear look at his inner self. The apron is white, lined in black with gold stars on the white side (Pleiades, Hyades, Orion, Capella) and with silver stars on the black side (Perseus, Scorpio, Bootes). Also on it is a serpent (ouroboros) surrounding a scarab, a triangle in a glory with the Tetragrammaton in its center and the four initials of the stars Regulus, Aldebaran, Antares and Fomalhaut. The jewel is a gold tau cross (crux ansata) with a serpent entwined around it and the Hebrew words HLThI (he has suffered or been wounded) and NChShThN (the Brazen Serpent) on it. The duty is to fulfill your destiny and to re-create yourself by reformation, repentance and enlarging your knowledge.

26° - Prince of Mercy or Scottish Trinitarian In this degree we explore for “the rewards of the trinity of Gods attributes - wisdom or intelligence, force or strength, harmony or beauty”. The apron is scarlet, bordered in white, with a green triangle (point-down) in the center. In the triangle are the initials of force, wisdom and harmony, and a flaming heart of gold with the initials I.H.S. (Jesus Hominum Salvator or Imperium, Harmonia, Sapientia). The jewel is gold and is the same triangle, suspended by a purple ribbon. The duties are to practice forgiveness and mercy; tolerance; to be devoted to the teaching of the principles of Masonry.

27° - Knight Commander of the Temple This degree teaches the apprentice to scorn selfishness and to uphold the knightly virtues of

charity, truth and honor. We should always strive to assist the poor, helpless and infirm. The apron is of scarlet lambskin, lined in black, with a Teutonic Cross (cross potent sable, charged with a smaller cross double potent or surcharged with the escutcheon of the Empire, the two-headed black eagle) and a black key surrounded by a laurel wreath. The jewel is the Teutonic Cross shown on the apron. The duties are to be a lover of wisdom and to be faithful to your promises made within Masonry.

28° - Knight of the Sun or Prince Adept We learn in this degree that our love for God manifests itself in our love for truth, justice and nobility of soul. The apron worn is white lambskin with a vermilion pentagram. The jewel is a gold five-pointed star. The duties are to be devoted to truth, honour, loyalty, justice and humanity.

29° - Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew The virtues taught in this degree are love of God, loyalty to superiors, faithful adherence to promise and active resistance to unfair judgment. There is no apron. The jewel is a gold St. Andrew’s cross (“X”), surmounted with a knight’s helmet with a thistle of gold between the arms at the bottom. In the center of the cross is a Hebrew YOD and on its points, clockwise from bottom, the Hebrew letters N M I N. The duties are to reverence and obey God; to serve the truth; to protect virtue and innocence; to defend the people against tyranny.

30° - Knight of Kadosh or Knight of the White & Black Eagle The lesson of this degree is to be true to ourselves, to stand for what is right and to be just in our lives today with a belief in God, country and oneself. There is no apron, but the jewel is a gold Teutonic cross, enameled in red, with a silver double-headed eagle with wings spread pointing downward resting upon it. The duty is to labor unceasingly for the good of mankind.

CONSISTORYThe Consistory Degrees are very different from each other in form and content. The 31° reveals the dynamic relationship that has existed for centuries between human law as a means of achieving justice, and divine justice as an ideal. The 32° reviews the degrees of the Lodge of Perfection, the Chapter of Rose Croix and the Council of Kadosh. In it we learn the very ancient roots of Masonic Truth - in the East! (click images to enlarge)“Where Freemasonry flourishes, there will be found the highest type of citizenship and the best standard of living.” - Albert Pike 31° - Inspector Inquisitor In this degree the apprentice learns prayerful self-examination. The mistakes today should not be committed tomorrow. Simply, the daily look at ones self to learn to live with the future. No apron is worn in the Supreme Tribunal, but the traditional apron displayed is of pure white lambskin with a Teutonic Cross of black and silver embroidered upon the flap. The jewel is a silver Teutonic cross. The jewel is suspended from a white collar, with a gold triangle with a “31” inside it. The duty is to judge yourself in the same light as you judge others, considering both actions and motives.

32° - Master of the Royal Secret The lessons taught in this degree are that genuine brotherhood requires mutual regard, opinion, esteem and charity. We always look for the good in all and make allowances for other’s shortcomings. We trust the Supreme Architect to lead us to friendship, morality and brotherly love. The apron of this degree is white, lined in black, with a double-headed eagle and a plan of the Camp of the Princes. The jewel worn is a golden Teutonic Cross. In the center are the letters XXXII, surrounded by a green wreath. The cap of a Master of the Royal Secret is black silk with a black band trimmed in gold. In the center front is a double-headed eagle emblem with a

The apron is of white silk or velvet, twelve inches square, edged with two stripes of gold lace, each half an inch wide, and an inch apart, and fringed with gold. Between the stripes of lace is a stripe of black velvet. On the flap are embroidered six flags, three on each side, the lower one blue, the middle one red, and the upper one gold. On these, in the center, is a Teutonic Cross of gold, and over that an eye of gold, surrounded by rays. On the cross, a black double-headed eagle, with beak and claws of gold, holding a sword of gold, one claw on the hilt.. On the body of the apron is the Tracing -Board of the degree in all the colors. The reverse side of the apron is of crimson silk or velvet. It is tied by a heavy cord of crimson silk.

32° 33°

15

Scottish Rite Regalia Photos and Prints Illustrations of the Scottish Rite regalia paintings by Bro. Robert H. White, 32°, are available in two formats: (1) individual 8” x 12” or 11” x 14” color photographs (2) grouped photos in a color 22” x 33” posterTo order individual prints please contact Bro. George J. Stoklas, 32º KCCH Phone: 202-483-7488 email: embcamera@aol.com

To order color posters picturing all of the regalia paintings, 4° thru 33°, including KCCH & Grand Cross, contact:

The Supreme Council 33° S.J., 1733 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20009;

Phone: 202-232-3579; or visit the online store at:

www.srmason-sj.org

Scottish Rite Apron

rayed equilateral triangle above in gold. The triangle is red, has 32° in its center and is trimmed with gold. The duties are: a Soldier of the Light seeks truth and knowledge; a Soldier of Freedom demands for the people free vote and voice and attains freedom of voice, vote and opinion for himself; a Soldier of the True Religion combats spiritual tyranny with reason and truth; a Soldier of the People encourages men to be self-reliant and independent; a Soldier of Scottish Rite Masonry is zealous and ardent in the performance of his duties to God, his country, his family, his brethren and himself. COURT OF HONOURThe Scottish Rite confers a number of honors upon members who have contributed extraordinary service to the Rite, to Masonry in general, and to the world at large. (click images to enlarge) Knight Commander of the Court of Honour The Rank of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor is not a Degree, but an Investiture, bestowed upon members deserving recognition for faithful services to the Rite or to mankind. At the biennial session of the Supreme Council, certain Masters of the Royal Secret are chosen to be invested with the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour. The respective Sovereign Grand Inspectors General or Deputies nominate members for this honor, and they must also be unanimously approved by The Supreme Council. This Investiture is a prerequisite to receiving the Thirty-third Degree. The Rank of K.∙.C.∙.C.∙.H.∙. may not be requested, and if requested must be refused. The cap of the Knight Commander Court of Honour is red with a darker red band trimmed in gold. In the center front is a representation of the Knight Commander Jewel, a Passion Cross with fancy arms, featuring in the center a trefoil embroidered in green encircled by “Kt.∙. Comm.∙. Court of Honour” embroidered in gold. 33° - Inspector General Honorary The Thirty-third Degree is conferred by the Supreme Council upon members of the Rite in recognition of outstanding work in the Rite or in public life. At its biennial session the Supreme Council elects members of the Rite to receive the Degree. Members unanimously so elected become honorary members of the Supreme Council. The Thirty-third Degree may not be requested, and if requested must be refused. The Degree is granted solely out of recognition for outstanding services. These 33° Masons are Inspectors General Honorary and honorary members of the Supreme Council. The active members of the Supreme Council are chosen from among them. The cap for an Inspector General Honorary is white with a white band edged in gold, featuring the symbol for this honorary Degree, a red slanting Patriarchal Cross.

Grand Cross of the Court of Honour This is the highest individual honor that The Supreme Council bestows. It is voted very rarely to Thirty-third Degree Masons only for the most exceptional and extraordinary services. The Grand Cross cap is white with a blue band. On the front is a replica of the Grand Cross jewel, which is composed of a Teutonic Cross, with an embroidered crimson rose with green leaves at its center.

Reprinted From - http://www.scottish-rite-mn.org/degrees.htm

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Since 1994 when the first centers opened, over 5,000 children have been tutored at the Children’s Learning Centers and more than 750 tutors have received certification to carry out this important work. We are heartened by the fact that we have witnessed, both anecdotally and statistically, the positive effects that such tutoring has on the lives of dyslexic children, their families and their communities.

32°Masonic learning Centers

for Childrenof school children with dyslexia endure frustration and demoralization on a daily basis as they struggle to acquire skills that many of us take for granted. If your child is struggling with reading and writing, how do you know if dyslexia is the cause? Where can you go for help?For over ten years, the Scottish Rite Masons, Northern Jurisdiction, have been national leaders in the effort to help children and their families overcome the painful obstacles of dyslexia. At 59 Learning Centers in 15 states, the Children’s Learning Centers tackle the challenge of dyslexia head-on, both by providing free tutoring for children with dyslexia and by training a growing cadre of highly skilled and dedicated tutors.

3�°Masonic Learning Centers for Children

The SCOTTiSh RiTe MaSOnS nORTheRn JuRiSdiCTiOn

17

History and Methodology

The Masons are the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the world, with a rich history in the U.S. that dates back to colonial times-George Washington was among the first Masons in the then newly formed United States. A cornerstone of Scottish Rite Masonry is a wholehearted commitment to volunteerism. Masons do their charitable work at a level where real differences can be made in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Following the philanthropic precedent of many other Masonic charities, notably the Shriners Hospitals, the Children’s Learning Centers Program represents a substantial charitable commitment. This commitment totaled $8 million in 2005 and we anticipate that the program will grow to even greater capacity in coming years.

In 1994, the Scottish Rite Masons joined forces with the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital to launch a major endeavor to help ease the life-long burdens of dyslexia. Until the Children’s Learning Centers were launched in the 15 states of this organization’s Northern Jurisdiction, no other national charity had adopted this

critical need as a major concern. Although studies revealed the existence of remarkably effective programs for treating dyslexia, no one was addressing the issue and its cost to individuals and society in a systematic way.

The initial goal was to open 55 Learning Centers in 15 states. At that time, the Masons made the following philanthropic pledges:

* To help children with dyslexia learn to read and to reach their full potential; * To help their families end the frustration, guilt, and disruption caused by dyslexia; * To help communities by building Learning Centers to help youngsters succeed in and out of school; and * To fully fund this endeavor.

The Children’s Learning Centers, now in 15 states, provide tutoring at no charge to children from kindergarten through high school who have been

diagnosed as dyslexic. Children are eligible regardless of economic status, race, religion, or Masonic affiliation. The positive impact of early intervention on the lives of these children and their families is enormous, and inspires our commitment to this program.

Additionally the Scottish Rite Masons Southern Jurisdiction runs 165 RiteCare clinics, centers and special programs for children with speech, language, hearing, and learning disorders.

The curriculum used as the basis for tutoring and tutor training at all Children’s Learning Centers integrates principles of two of the leading Orton-Gillingham approaches. The Orton-Gillingham approach, developed in the 1920’s, uses a sequential, multisensory phonetic approach. Thus, a variety of sensory data is used to help children understand the written word.

School teachers receive training and continuing education credits to become certified Children’s Learning Center tutors. Children are tutored one-on-one twice a week after regular school hours. This allows for the curriculum to be tailored to each individual child as necessary, and progress is made in small, readily quantifiable steps. Services provided by the Learning Centers equip

3�°Masonic Learning Centers for Children

LocaTions

There are currently 59 Children’s Learning Centers in 15 states. Each

Learning Center is administered by its own director, has its own staff, and is

governed by a volunteer Board of Governors that is broadly representative

of the community in which the Center is located. All Centers fall under

a single not for profit 501 (c)(3) Massachusetts corporation. Although

each is administered by a Center Director and governed by a Board of

Governors, they are all subject to standard operational and clinical policies

and procedures established by the Corporate Board of Directors. This

centralization of policies and procedures ensures that the quality of our

services remains high even as the number of our Centers grows. Click

on your state, or the state nearest your home, for a list of local learning

centers.

Reprint from : http://www.childrenslearningcenters.orgPhotos - Mitchell Ozog

The SCOTTiSh RiTe MaSOnS nORTheRn JuRiSdiCTiOn

18

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Vol. 39No. 1

FEBRUARY 2008

�0

The northern Light Magazine of

The Scottish Rite Journal Magazine of

available at:

http://www.scottishrite.org/what/educ/srj.html

available at:

http://www.supremecouncil.org